TNC150 Comms problems, amongst others…

[JagSys]

Hi all, I am attempting to use a TNC150 and would very much like to be able to communicate with it but all my attempts have failed. I am using TNCremoNT under windows 98 I have tried every documented cable configuration I have found without any joy???!!!!

Is there a mode the control need to be in, how do I access the machine parameters to check the port settings, what should the port settings be? Any help here would be useful at the moment, I am all out of ideas.

Best,

JagSys

[machintek]

Typically the COMM settings are under the MOD key. I have always used a old DOS version of PROCOMM and have used settings such as RS232, and matching baud rate. It is expected that you use 7 data bits, 1 stop bit, even parity, on the PC end. It is easier to check by writing a program at the machine and sending it out and back. Thus you know the format is correct.

George

[awemawson]

Originally Posted by JagSys Hi all, I am attempting to use a TNC150 and would very much like to be able to communicate with it but all my attempts have failed. I am using TNCremoNT under windows 98 I have tried every documented cable configuration I have found without any joy???!!!! Is there a mode the control need to be in, how do I access the machine parameters to check the port settings, what should the port settings be? Any help here would be useful at the moment, I am all out of ideas. Best, JagSys

This was the endpoint message on another forum of all my problems with a TNC151 which is very similar to yours - may help you:

Copied below is my followup after solving my TNC151 DNC problems:


The Solution !!!!!!!!!!

Not wanting to be a quiter I put some more time in on this odd problem and got a result.

First a few misconceptions (by me).

A/ What I thought was "TNCRemo" is in fact "TNCServer"
B/ The TNC RS232 interface can exist in three modes - "EXT", "ME", and "FE" selected via the 'MOD' key - I had only ever had it as "EXT" and it should have been "FE"
C/File names & extensions ARE important in block mode transmission. 123.H = program 123 in Heidenhain conversational code and 123.I is program 123 in ISO-Gcode

Setting all these options correctly and using software handshaking (MP222=168) means I'm now a happy bunny loading & saving at 9600.

On the way I've remade the RS232 cables (twice!), had the controller totally to bits, blown loads of swarf out of the cabinet and even some off the TNC151 motherboard, and learned how to reload all the machine parameters into an empty controller.

Many thanks to all that offered help and particularly GISMO who sent me known good code to use as a standard.

AWEM